Better Lives Podcast with CWCU
As a community focused credit union, Central Willamette is excited to further our community involvement by starting a podcast meant for YOU! Better Lives with Central Willamette is your go-to resource for all things finance. Join us as we explore topics like budgeting, saving, investing, retirement planning, and more. Our insightful discussions will empower you to make informed financial decisions and keep you on top of local news and events, so we can keep Building Better Lives Together.
Episodes
39 episodes
Member Experience That Matters
In this episode of the Better Lives Podcast, we sit down with Amanda Curran, CWCU's Director of Retail, to explore what member experience really means at a credit union. We discuss how building trust, providing personalized service, and p...
The Money Reset: Building Your First Buffer
Build a little breathing room into your finances. In this episode of the Money Reset series, Kaitlin and Erik share why your first buffer matters, how to start saving, and why even a small emergency fund can make a big difference.
More Than a Flight: A Conversation with South Willamette Valley Honor Flight
What is Honor Flight, and why does it matter? In this episode, Rebecca and Kellie talk with Southwest Willamette Valley Honor Flight about the work they do to recognize and celebrate the service of our local veterans.
How Employee Training Shapes Member Experience
In this episode of the Better Lives Podcast, Kaitlin sits down with Bob Waddington, Senior Manager of Learning and Development at CWCU, to explore how employee training helps create a better member experience through knowledgeable service...
Remember Who's In Your Community: With Work Unlimited
In this episode of the Better Lives Podcast, we sit down with Chris Singer, Employment Manager at Work Unlimited, to talk about the importance of dignity, independence, and meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with intellec...
The Money Reset: Know Your Real Numbers
Kaitlin and Michelle continue the Money Reset series by helping you get clear on what you actually spend. From hidden subscriptions to fixed costs that control your budget, this episode shows you how to find your “locked-in” number and stop gue...
When Kids Are Heard: The Story of ABC House
In this episode, Rebecca and Veronica talk with the CEO of ABC House, Karsen O'Bryan, about their mission, the impact of their work, and how they’re making a difference for children and families in our community.
From Crisis to Stability: How Jackson Street Supports Youth
In this episode of the Better Lives Podcast, Rebecca and Kaitlin are joined by Ben Martens from Jackson Street Youth Services to talk about the realities of youth homelessness in our community and the life-changing work being done to support yo...
How to Recognize and Avoid Common Scams with Tyler and John
Scammers are getting more sophisticated, and it’s easier than ever to get caught off guard. In this episode, Tyler and John from CWCU break down the most common scams they’re seeing right now, how they work, and the red flags to watch for...
The Money Reset: The Wake-Up Call
In the first episode of our new Money Reset series, Kaitlin and Michelle talk about the moment many people experience, the financial “wake up call.”
How the LBCC Foundation and CWCU Help Students Succeed
In this episode of The Better Lives Podcast, we introduce CWCU’s new Roadrunner Debit Card in partnership with the LBCC Foundation and explore how it will support students at Linn-Benton Community College. Joined by Executive Direct...
Dividing Responsibilities Without Resentment
In this episode, we talk about the invisible job of managing money and responsibilities at home and why one person often carries more of the mental load. We share why it happens, how resentment can build, and what simple changes can help ...
Why Your Raise Doesn't Feel Like a Raise
You got a raise… so why doesn’t it feel like one? This episode breaks down lifestyle inflation, the sneaky ways spending rises with income, and what you can do to enjoy your raise without feeling stuck in the same financial place.
Should You Refinance? With Sue Wack
With interest rates beginning to shift, many homeowners are wondering if now is the right time to refinance. In this episode, Michelle and Kaitlin sit down with Sue Wack, Mortgage Loan Originator at Central Willamette Credit Union, to break dow...
Decoding Interest Rates with Alex Singletary
Join hosts Kaitlin and Michelle as they sit down with Alex Singletary, Mortgage Loan Originator at Central Willamette Credit Union. In this episode we will discuss home interest rates and what buyers can do to be prepared for changing rates in ...
Making the Most of Your Money This Holiday with Kellie Marshall
Bonus Episode!We’re dropping a special episode outside our usual schedule! Kaitlin and Michelle are joined by Eugene Branch Manager Kellie Marshall to share practical tips for making the most of your money this holiday season.
Budgeting for the Holidays
This episode of the Better Lives Podcast explores how to enjoy the holiday season without overspending. The hosts break down a simple three-step budgeting plan, smart ways to save, and creative gift ideas that won’t strain your wallet. Lea...
International Fraud Awareness Week: Common Scams
In this special International Fraud Awareness Week episode, hosts Kaitlin and Michelle break down today’s most common scams, including impersonation, phishing, and new AI-driven fraud, sharing practical tips to help you and your loved ones stay...
Leading with Purpose: Helen Higgins on Growing BGC Corvallis
Helen Higgins, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Corvallis, joins us to share her leadership journey and the Club’s mission to create opportunities, support families, and build a sense of community for local kids.
Wellness Program with Keri Elrich
Erik sits down with Lending Specialist Keri Elrich to talk all things wellness! Learn how Central Willamette Credit Union's Wellness Program supports employees, adds fun to healthy living, and what new initiatives are on the way.
Guiding the Way: Oregon Coast Community College Student Support Team
In this episode of the Better Lives Podcast, we sit down with Tracy Jones and Ben Kaufman from Oregon Coast Community College’s Student Support Team. Discover how OCCC helps students and families access vital resources like food, housing, finan...
Leading with Experience: Amellio Carney's Credit Union Journey
In this episode of The Better Lives Podcast, we talk with Amellio Carney, Branch Manager of Central Willamette Credit Union’s Salem Lancaster branch. Amellio shares how his journey through banking led him to discover the power of putti...
Conversations with Community Engagement
Join hosts Kaitlin and Erik as they chat with Rebecca, Senior Manager Community Engagement about what the CE team does for the credit union, and the wonderful initiatives that they are involved in.